1995 Caterham 21 vs. 2001 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2001 Opel Meriva is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Caterham 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Caterham 21 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Caterham 21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2001 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Meriva weights approximately 727 kg more than 1995 Caterham 21.
Because 1995 Caterham 21 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1995 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel Meriva, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1995 Caterham 21 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Meriva. (151 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1995 Caterham 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Caterham 21 | 2001 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 21 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1070 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 53 L |
